This infrared detector has a 45º detection angle all the way around the dome so it can receive infrared signals from all directions but behind it. It detects 38kHz infrared transmissions regardless if a pulsed signal is received or not, this means it can detect a simple carrier frequency. The output from this sensor will produce an variable DC voltage compared to the signal strength it sees, starting from the positive supply voltage and going to 0V as the signal grows stronger. What can you do with such a fully featured receiver? Glad you asked, here's some features and applications:

Allow your robot to have simple object detection! As long as the TSOP4038 sees a 38kHz signal, it can be used as a rough analog infrared reflective sensor, just like the one we use for object detection in our Sumovore kit.

Super secret spy applications! Detect beam interruptions with a 38kHz transmitted across the room aimed at this detector and wait for someone or something to interrupt the beam and then "Release the hounds!".

Receive wireless data transmissions! Receive and decode data from a infrared (38kHz) emitting source, use a logic analyzer, oscilloscope to or even an Arduino to decode the signal.

Make your electronic projects remote controlled! Use a remote control to power on or trigger different modes in your electronic applications.

Pin for pin replacement for the PNA4602! Not only is it a drop-in replacement for the PNA4602, it has the added feature of lower voltage operation.